Test methods for measuring pure mode III delamination toughness of composite

Abstract : This paper focuses on the characterization of pure mode III delamination behavior of composite materials. The development for pure mode III delamination testing methods is reviewed. Two testing methods for mode III experiments were evaluated: a novel test proposed in our previous study, termed Edge Ring Crack Torsion (ERCT) test, and the widely used Edge Crack Torsion (ECT) test. The two methods were compared by experiment and finite element analysis. The results demonstrate the advantage of ERCT. The limitations of the ECT test are discussed.